home inspection

“You can’t judge a book by its cover.” You’ve heard that one, and you’ve probably discovered that it’s a pretty good thing to remember. We apply that idea to things we buy, and even extend that phrase to people (how many of your very best friends would seem like “non-conformists” to others?)

And the same theory needs to be kept in mind when buying a home. Not that you should approach every seller as though they’re trying to hide something – because in truth, they may not even be aware of problems with the home they’re selling. After all – how often do we hire a home inspector to go through our own homes when we’re not selling one?

No – inspectors are there to do a job on your behalf so that there are no ‘surprises’ that pop up during or after you take possession of that home. Keep in mind, of course, that homes are built using thousands of parts, methods, and systems – and are built by real live people. So the idea of “perfection” isn’t really what you’re shooting for when you hire an inspector to go through that house on which you’ve made an offer. But you are looking for information and confirmation that there are no potentially major flaws or defect that could materially affect both your finances and your enjoyment of that home.

With that in mind, we’ve got a list of a few things to which buyers should pay attention when they have their home inspection by a professionally licensed home inspector.

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system)

We’re in Las Vegas – so this one typically goes to the top of the need-to-know list. Because if you’ve ever lived through a few days with a broken air conditioner in this town during the summer – well, we don’t need to tell you how much fun it was.

While a home inspector can confirm that a home’s HVAC is functional at the time of the home inspection, they won’t be able to guarantee that it will keep working once you take possession. However, they can provide you with information about the age of the air conditioning condenser (the part that either sits on the roof or on the ground outside) by reviewing the serial number – which will allow you to make an educated guess of its potential lifespan. (Most of them last 12-15 years before they need replacing.) If it has been replaced by the current owner, however, you should also be able to locate this information in the Seller’s Disclosure form.

Electrical

Do the switches work? Are there any obvious malfunctions? Have the outlets been grounded? Is the panel updated and expandable for additional appliances or a potential remodel? Typically these are not issues in newer homes, and many older homes have had their electrical wiring updated. But you want to make sure you find out if the electrical wiring is up to code, and more importantly, that it’s safe.

Plumbing

A full evaluation of pipes, drains, water heaters, and water pressure and temperature is required to make sure that there are no problem inside the walls. Even a slow drip that’s not noticeable inside your home – over time can cause huge problems that require major repair.

Roof

Depending on the size of the house, roof replacements can range anywhere from $2000 – $50,000+. During an inspection, you’re looking to get a good understanding of the reasonable life expectancy of the roof and to determine if there are any defects (as a result of wind, weather, etc.) in shingles, flashing, and fascia (especially around skylights) that can cause ceiling drips. Roof problems are responsible for 39% of homeowners’ insurance claims, according to the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association. And it’s always far better to be aware and make repairs ahead of a potential disaster that might make your home temporarily inhabitable.

Foundation

The foundation is perhaps the most important thing to check in a home inspection. Look at the base of the walls and the ceilings in each room. Are there obvious cracks or apparent shifts in the foundation? Do the same check around the outside. Are there any trees encroaching on the foundation? Home inspectors will typically look at foundations from inside the house and outside the house in an effort to find cracks that are big enough to cause damage. Most concrete foundations will have a few minor cracks, which are nothing to worry about, but make sure all potential issues are brought to your attention.

Water Drainage

Current or future water issues – such as standing puddles and faulty grading or downspouts – can cause serious problems to the foundation and stability of your home – not to mention be a cause for potential mold issues. Poor landscape planning is one culprit, so you want to make sure all drainage leads away from the home. An inspector will check out landscaping to see if trees and shrubs are in good condition, and evaluate pathways, retaining walls, sheds, and railings.

Your home inspector will, of course, be looking over and making notes about literally dozens of features and functions of the home you’re hoping to buy. But some things, such as those listed above, can create far more financial and enjoyment exposure than others. Be sure to get a copy of the home inspection report when it’s completed for your records, too. Of course, an experienced Realtor® working on your side of the transaction will not only make sure that happens, but be able to review the report with a keen eye and follow-up on potential problems before you’ll even need to think about them. (It’s part of the job – and we do it with pride!)

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for property management, a newly built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to provide the service you’re looking for. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or visit www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!